Iran's spy chief used just two words to respond to White House ridicule of last week's presidential election: "Thank you." His sarcasm was barely hidden. The backfire on Washington was more evident. The sharp barbs from President Bush were widely seen in Iran as damaging to pro-reform groups because the comments appeared to have boosted turnout among hard-liners in Friday's election — with the result being that an ultraconservative now is in a two-way showdown for the presidency. "I say to Bush: `Thank you,'" quipped Intelligence Minister Ali Yunesi. "He motivated people to vote in retaliation."

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The President has enough trouble with the English language while talking to Americans and now his own words come back to bite him in Iran. For all those on 24/7 who always cite his political savvy; they should duely note that he blew it big time on this one. Sometimes its better to remain silent on an issue than inflame the people you really want to win over.